How do I make a Windows .ico file (apps, folders)?
Windows ICO icon generator - online, in your browser, no install. Drop your image (PNG, JPG, WebP), pick the sizes (16, 24, 32, 48, 64, 128, 256 px), download a finished .ico file containing all those layers in one.
The Windows ICO format is a multi-layer container - File Explorer picks 16 px for thumbnails, 32 px for window titles, 256 px for Extra Large view.
Everything runs locally - image never leaves your browser.
How to use it
- Upload a source image - ideally a square 256×256 px or larger (PNG / JPG / WebP / AVIF / HEIC).
- Pick the sizes you want on the right. By default all 7 standard Windows sizes.
- Click "Generate .ico". The generator scales to each selected size and merges into one multi-layer file.
- Download. Use as an app icon (.exe), folder, shortcut, website favicon.
When this is useful
Where ICO is required - typical uses:
- Desktop apps (.exe) - Visual Studio, Inno Setup, Electron, Tauri all need .ico for the application icon.
- Custom folder icons - right-click folder → Properties → Customize → Change Icon.
- Desktop shortcuts - same dialog as folders.
- Config files - some programs use .ico to brand their own files in File Explorer.
- UWP / Windows Store apps - the format is also handy here.
After generating you can squeeze the file further in the image compressor.
Questions and answers
Ideally 256×256 px or larger, square. Generator scales automatically to each selected size. Non-square inputs are letterboxed inside the square with transparent padding.